Education: Ruane likely to go for choices at 14…

THE Education Minister looks likely to be heading for a Dickson Plan-type substitute for the current transfer arrangements. This would mean key educational decisions being taken at 14, when children are more informed about where they want to go. It seems likely unions and other parties can buy into this, although the grammar school lobby will oppose such plans. Lisa Smyth reports: On possible replacements for the 11-plus, Caitriona Ruane has spoken of her desire to see Ulster pupils make choices for future career and employment opportunities at 14. Such a system could see pupils attending their closest school until the age of 14 when they would select what school to attend according to whether they wish to follow a more academic or vocational pathway. (I think it’s been Alliance policy for years, but then they’re used to their policies being nicked…!)